How Lawyer / Attorneys in Massachusetts get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Massachusetts compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $157,500 | $119,700 | $204,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $195,800 | $148,800 | $254,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $225,100 | $171,100 | $292,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $270,100 | $205,300 | $351,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $306,100 | $232,600 | $398,000 |
Pay varies sharply within Massachusetts. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | $215,000 | $163,400 | $279,500 | -4% |
Top occupations by median pay in Massachusetts — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Massachusetts
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Lawyer / Attorney salary in Massachusetts is $225,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $171,100 and the 75th at $292,700.
Pay-wise, Massachusetts sits +42% above the national Lawyer / Attorney median ($158,500). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Lawyer / Attorneys (10–14 years of experience) in Massachusetts earn around $270,100 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $306,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Massachusetts ranks 4th for Lawyer / Attorney pay. The highest-paying state pays around $261,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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